Clinton Mesothelioma & Toxic Exposure Lawyer
The primary cause of the rare and aggressive lung cancer Mesothelioma is asbestos minerals. These minerals are naturally occurring and have been used in society for years. Industries took advantage of the fireproofing and insulating qualities of asbestos up until the Environmental Protection Agency began banning the mineral in certain forms in 1973. While there are restrictions on its uses, asbestos is not fully banned in the United States. If your exposure to asbestos has caused mesothelioma or other health conditions, contact a Clinton Mesothelioma lawyer at Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette. Our experience comes from representing injured clients for over thirty years.
Exposure to Asbestos
Even though asbestos is now regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), people are still suffering from years of toxic exposure to the mineral. It can take 20+ years for symptoms of Mesothelioma to appear. The mineral is found in so many products that over 75 professions should be concerned about their surroundings. According to Asbestos.com, the top five occupations at risk of mesothelioma are:
- Construction workers;
- Shipyard workers;
- Industrial tradesmen;
- Power plant workers; and
- Firefighters.
In addition to those who were around asbestos for their work, there have been numerous documented cases of second-hand of mesothelioma. A worker coming home from the job may bring asbestos laden clothing that gets thrown in the laundry and the wife is suddenly exposed to the toxic mineral. Since asbestos was found in so many products until the 1980s, older buildings still contain asbestos in the drywall, ceiling tiles, and insulation. Anyone who has worked their career in an asbestos-filled building is at risk of conditions caused by exposure.
Other Conditions Caused By Asbestos
While asbestos is most commonly linked with mesothelioma, it is also known to cause asbestosis, which is a chronic lung disease caused by inflammation due to breathing in asbestos particulars. Asbestos can affect other areas of the body and is linked to cases of laryngeal cancer, ovarian cancer, and testicular cancer.
Failure to Protect Employees
Companies are required by OSHA to monitor the asbestos and protect employees from exposure. If exposure is above the permissible exposure limits set by OSHA, the company needs to provide employees with proper respiratory protection. Signs must be placed to warn employees of areas that require the respiratory protections. Eating and smoking shouldn’t occur near these areas, and employers must provide separate lunch spaces away from the contaminated areas. Employers must give asbestos awareness training for any employees who will be exposed to asbestos or who will be completing housekeeping duties in a building known to contain asbestos. If your employer failed to follow the OSHA regulations you should consult with a Clinton lawyer about your case.
Contact a Clinton Mesothelioma Lawyer at Our Office
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or if you have been experiencing health problems due to toxic exposure, you may be able to receive compensation for pain and suffering as well as to cover medical costs and lost wages. Our Clinton attorneys at Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette are ready to learn about your case. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
